The roots of Naan bread reach back thousands of years and are deeply embedded in the history of the Indian subcontinent. Its name "Naan" derives from the Persian word "nan," which simply means "bread." The origins of Naan bread can be traced to the ancient trade routes that connected India to the Middle East. During this time, traders and conquerors introduced new ingredients and techniques to Indian cuisine, and Naan bread was one of the fascinating culinary innovations to emerge.
The preparation of Naan bread can vary from region to region in India, resulting in countless variations, from classic butter Naan to garlic Naan, cheese Naan, and even sweet Naan with fruits and nuts. It is traditionally baked in a tandoor, a barrel-shaped clay oven that imparts a unique texture and flavor.
Today, on Food for Flexitarians, we present you with a recipe for quick garlic skillet flatbread.
Ingredients for Naan bread
250g flour
120ml lukewarm milk (or water as an alternative)
80g yogurt (or soy yogurt for a vegan option)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 clove of garlic, peeled
2 tbsp butter (or vegan butter alternative)
Chopped fresh parsley
Naan bread Preparation
In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, dry yeast, and salt. Add yogurt (or soy yogurt for a vegan option) to the dry ingredients.
Pour in the lukewarm milk (or lukewarm water). Knead the dough thoroughly until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour. During this time, the dough will rise and increase in volume.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into approximately 6 small portions (the number of portions depends on the desired size of the flatbreads).
Shape each portion into a ball and then roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a thin flatbread (Naan). You can make them round or oval, depending on your preference.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. When the skillet is hot, place one of the flatbreads in it and bake until it forms bubbles and becomes lightly browned (about 2 minutes). Flip it over and bake the other side until it's also lightly browned.
Tip: Melt the butter and add the finely chopped clove of garlic. Simmer the garlic on low heat until it becomes soft. Brush the Naan bread with the garlic butter and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley.
Resumé
In conclusion, Naan bread is a culinary treasure that reflects the rich history and culinary creativity of India. It's much more than just a simple side dish; it's a symbol of India's cultural diversity and the art of breadmaking at its finest. If you find yourself with extra Naan bread, you can easily freeze them for later use. Enjoy this delicious and versatile Indian flatbread!
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